Jumping Spiders As Pets
Jumping spiders are some of the cutest, smartest and most interesting of all spiders – leading many to question whether they can have them as a pet. The good news is that yes, jumping spiders can be kept quite happily as pets – provided you are prepared to meet their specific needs!
What You Need to Know Before Adopting a Jumping Spider
Before taking on a jumping spider as a pet, there are a few important things to consider:
- Temperature: Most jumping spiders require a temperature of between 60-80 degrees in order to thrive.
- Habitat: Jumping spiders are ground dwellers, and should be provided with a natural-looking habitat that includes dry leaves, bark, and other organic matter.
- Feeding: Jumping spiders feed primarily on insects, such as crickets and flies, so you will need to have a steady supply of these on hand.
- Handling: While they may not be ideal if you’re looking for a hands-on pet, jumping spiders can be handled if you are very gentle and use slow movements.
The Benefits of Keeping a Jumping Spider as a Pet
The biggest benefit of taking on a jumping spider as a pet is that they are quite fascinating, and you’ll find yourself spending hours watching them as they explore and hunt. Not only are they intelligent hunters, but many species of jumping spider also exhibit interesting behavior and social interactions.
It’s also worth noting that jumping spiders don’t require a large amount of space, unlike many other types of spider, and as such they are perfect if you’re limited on space.
How to Care for a Jumping Spider
Once you’ve decided to adopt a jumping spider, there are few key steps you’ll need to take in order to keep your pet happy and healthy.
- Provide a Well-Ventilated Home: A jumping spider needs a well-ventilated home that is provided with ample air flow and humidity.
- Keep Predators Away: It’s important to keep the habitat away from potential predators, such as cats, rats, and lizards.
- Keep it Clean: The habitat should be cleaned regularly to avoid any potential build up of bacteria and fungi.
- Offer Variety: Provide a variety of food sources, such as crickets, flies, and other small insects.
Overall, if you are looking for an interesting pet, then a jumping spider may be the perfect addition to your home! With the right care and environment, jumping spiders make great companions, and will provide endless hours of entertainment.
